Some of the best places in Scotland to take young children out into the countryside

Dumgoyne, Campsies, Stirlingshire

Walking conditions – Good footpath up grassy slope. However, the slope is relentless and particularly steep in places. Children may require assistance descending the steepest sections.

Time required – Around 2.5 to 4 hours

Nearest town – Strathblane

This is the favourite hill of many a rambler, including my mum who is always guaranteed to point out Dumgoyne to anyone and everyone at any given opportunity. It wouldn’t be so bad but you can see it clearly from almost anywhere in her home town of Blantyre. Being part of the Campsie Fells, Dumgoyne sets itself apart and not just literally.

From the parking bay at Dumgoyne Distillery cross the road and follow the faint path over fields until you cross a stream beside a fence. At this point the route becomes a distinct footpath which leads directly up an increasingly steep slope straight to the top of Dumgoyne. The path is wide in places as a result of the large number of visitors who are probably avoiding the muddier parts of the path by going around the sides. Please try to avoid doing this as it causes considerable erosion. Although it’s hard work, before you know it you’ll be on the summit. Park yourself close to the trig point, get your sandwiches out, and strike up a conversation with whoever it is you will be sitting near to on this busy, extremely enjoyable and most sociable of hills.

Take care on the way down as it is particularly steep (although not dangerous) and should be avoided if there are not enough confident adults to ensure the children can get down without any dramas. Alternatively, take a leaf out of my wife’s book and slide down the steep slope on your backside. The children are guaranteed to do likewise.